The high performance Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is heading to the famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
Two examples of the sporty EV, which was recently named 2024 World Performance Car of the Year, will tackle the famous ascent, which climbs by 1,440 metres (4,720 feet) over 12.42 miles, on 23 June 2024.
Hyundai aims to secure victory in the electric production SUV/crossover category, using two near-street-legal examples of the Ioniq 5 N.
Racing to the clouds
With 641hp from its twin electric motors, the Ioniq 5 N packs a mighty punch to tackle the formidable Pikes Peak mountain. It can hit 62mph in 3.25 seconds, with a top speed of 162mph.
Driving the production-class Ioniq 5 N will be Paul Dallenbach, an 11-time Pikes Peak winner. Dallenbach also set a previous outright record on the hill climb in 1993.
Joining Dallenbach is Ron Zaras, making his debut at Pikes Peak. A media personality and former Hoonigan executive, Zaras will showcase his story of going from a motorsport enthusiast to a competitor.
To meet the requirements of competing at Pikes Peak, Hyundai says the production Ioniq 5 N only required minimal modifications. A roll cage has been installed and the rear seats removed, plus a Recaro racing seat added for the driver.
More still to come
Hyundai will also reveal a special hardcore version of the Ioniq 5 N next month. The modified machine will be displayed at the Nurburgring 24 Hours on 30 May. Hyundai rally driver Dani Sordo and four-time Pikes Peak champion Robin Shute will race the enhanced version of the Ioniq 5 N.
Pikes Peak has become a major draw for car manufacturers in recent years. Bentley set a new record for production SUVs in 2018 with the Bentayga.
Volkswagen currently holds the outright record at Pikes Peak. Its time of 7min 57.15sec was achieved by the electric ID. R racer in 2018.
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